These grilled rosemary pork chops are super tasty and easy to make! With fresh rosemary and a lovely marinade, they are juicy and full of flavor!
Whenever I grill these, I’m reminded of summer cookouts. Just serve them with some veggies, and you’ve got a meal that feels special without much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: Choose bone-in chops for more flavor and juiciness, but boneless chops will work too. If you prefer a leaner option, use tenderloin instead.
Rosemary: Fresh rosemary adds a lovely aroma. If you can’t find fresh, dried rosemary can work, but use about one-third the amount since it’s more concentrated.
Olive Oil: A good quality olive oil enhances the flavor. For a change, you can use avocado oil, which has a higher smoke point and a milder taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a wonderful aroma. If garlic powder is all you have, use 1 teaspoon, but fresh is always better for this recipe!
How Do I Make Sure My Pork Chops Are Juicy?
Ensuring juicy pork chops is all about marinating and cooking them correctly. Marinate for at least 30 minutes to help the meat absorb flavors and moisture. The acid in lemon juice helps tenderize the meat, so don’t skip it if you can!
- Preheat the grill well to get a good sear on the chops.
- Cook over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side, keeping an eye on the temperature.
- Let them rest after grilling for about 5 minutes; this allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Following these tips, you’ll enjoy perfectly juicy and flavorful pork chops every time!
Grilled Rosemary Pork Chops
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 pork chops, about 1 inch thick
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves, chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for brightness)
- 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional for slight sweetness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and marinating time is at least 30 minutes (preferably 1-2 hours) for the best flavors. Grilling will take around 10 minutes, so you’re looking at about 50-80 minutes in total, including resting time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, chopped rosemary, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and honey or brown sugar if you’re using it. This mixture will add fantastic flavor and moisture to the pork chops!
2. Marinate the Pork Chops:
Place the pork chops in a shallow dish or a zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the chops, ensuring every piece is coated well. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting them marinate for 1-2 hours will make them even more delicious!
3. Grill the Chops:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. When it’s hot, take the pork chops out of the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off before discarding the leftover marinade. Place the chops directly on the grill.
4. Cooking Time:
Cook the pork chops for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for perfectly cooked pork.
5. Optional Infusion:
If you like, during the last minute of grilling, you can add fresh rosemary sprigs on top of the chops or throw them on the grill. This adds a lovely aroma and enhances the rosemary flavor.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once done, remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest on a plate for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices stay in the meat. Finally, serve the chops garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs alongside your favorite sides, like steamed broccoli or grilled vegetables.
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful Grilled Rosemary Pork Chops!
Can I Use Bone-In Pork Chops Instead of Boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in pork chops often have more flavor and stay juicier during cooking. Just be sure to adjust cooking times slightly as they may take a couple of minutes longer compared to boneless chops.
How Do I Store Leftover Pork Chops?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to avoid drying them out. If they seem dry, a splash of broth or water can help keep them moist while reheating!
Can I Marinate the Pork Chops Overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight can enhance the flavor even more! Just keep in mind that the acidic components, like lemon juice, can start to break down the meat if marinated for too long, so try to keep it under 24 hours for the best texture.
What Should I Serve with Grilled Rosemary Pork Chops?
These pork chops pair beautifully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. For a lighter option, you might also serve them with quinoa or a grain salad!
